We are celebrating World Water Day, an internationally recognized day held annually on March 22 as a means of focusing awareness on the importance of and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. The first World Water Day was designated on March 22, 1993. Each year this day highlights a specific aspect or “theme” of freshwater.

This year, the theme is water cooperation. As many of you know, water is one of the most precious resources on this planet. Water is an integral part of society: It powers cities, feeds crops, cools computer servers, keeps our bodies functioning properly and is used in manufacturing everything from cars to clothes. However, there is growing concern over this seemingly abundant resource. Although water makes up 75% of the Earth’s surface, only a fraction (around 2%) is suitable for human consumption. Of that 2%, less than 1% is currently accessible.

According to unwater.org, water availability is expected to decrease in many regions; yet global agricultural water consumption is expected to increase by 19% by 2050. Add in challenges faced from pollution and climate change, and it is little wonder why many fear this valuable resource is dwindling.

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These challenges have resulted in the global water crisis, a situation where a growing number of people lack access to safe, fresh drinking water as freshwater resources become scarcer. Many (rightfully so) see this as a problem, and a growing threat to life on Earth. Some have even predicted future wars over freshwater resources that could wreak further havoc on already struggling nations.

However, I believe we should look at this issue differently. What if we stopped viewing it as a problem, and started viewing it as a unique opportunity? An opportunity to come together, to set aside differences and to work out solutions to this problem that affects everybody. This is what I believe the theme of water cooperation is truly about.

Coming together for the good of the whole has nothing to do with politics. It does have everything to do with each individual person doing their part in society. This involves practicing water conservation techniques on a regular basis, becoming more educated on water-related issues and becoming connected with a water charity that aims at ending this growing concern.

The theme of cooperation is easily found in The W3 Project, a water charity partnership between FiltersFast.com, Wine to Water and TrekDesk. By working together, we are providing clean drinking water for those in need. By donating miles, or donating $1 at checkout on FiltersFast.com, you are making a difference in lives around the world.

As a small business, we are fully committed to a more sustainable environment which will improve overall health. We encourage you to do your part in helping end this growing crisis, we all have a part to play, so let’s play it.

Now is not the time to sit on the sideline. This problem will not go away by itself. It takes all of us coming together and doing our part (no matter how small) to end this crisis. This is what water cooperation is about.